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(CNN) – You know soda is not exactly good for you, but it’s hard to give up. The health benefits are numerous for those who give up the fizzy drinks.

Doctors say the biggest risk to soda drinkers is the excess calories, but even diet sodas can adversely affect your health.

Some ways to kick the habit: wean yourself off them slowly. Cut back to one a day for a few weeks, then try three a week.

You can also try adding water to soda. That will cut the calories, and your taste buds won’t be expecting as much sweetness.

Speaking of water, before drinking a soda, have some H2O. Chances are, it will quench your thirst, and you’ll fill up on the water, rather than a carbonated beverage. Keeping a bottle of water on hand can help as well.

If you crave those bubbles, try drinking seltzer water instead. It’s carbonated, and you can add a fruit juice to add a little sweetness.

If all of that sounds like too much… try the caffeine-free version of your favorite drink.

Once you’ve kicked the habit, nutritionists say you can treat it like any other junk food, and save it for a special occasion.